Ohana at Walt Disney World's Polynesian Resort: Dining Experience and Cost Analysis

For many guests visiting Walt Disney World's Polynesian Resort, dining at Ohana is a beloved experience. Known for its unique blend of Hawaiian culture and American cuisine, the restaurant offers an authentic Polynesian-themed meal. However, recent dining experiences at Ohana have raised concerns about the quality of food and overall service. In this article, we will explore the cost of dinner at Ohana, detailing what the cost typically includes, along with a review of the recent dining experience.

What Does the Cost Include at Ohana?

Typically, the cost of dinner at Ohana starts from $59 per adult, with varying costs depending on a guest's dining plan or individual reservation. This price often covers several components of the dining experience, including:

Meals: A full three-course meal, which can include appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Noah's Luau: For guests with a Diamond, Golden, or Platinum dining plan, the cost includes the Hawaiian Luau. The Luau typically consists of live entertainment, tropical drinks, and a buffet-style meal featuring traditional Polynesian cuisine. Specialty Drinks: Guests can opt for specialty cocktails or house drinks that are included in the meal price.

However, recent experiences at Ohana have shown that the quality of food and service might not always align with the typically inclusive offerings. In one instance, a guest who had dined at Ohana reported that their chicken dish was raw, which was a red flag for food safety. The management acknowledged the issue and offered a comp for the meal, but it didn't assuage the guest's concerns.

Recent Dining Experiences at Ohana

According to several recent reviews and accounts, the quality of dining at Ohana has declined in recent years. One guest described their experience as disappointing, stating that the food was terrible, even though they had previously enjoyed dining there. This was particularly disconcerting given that the dining experience at Polynesian Resort was generally positive before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key issues raised include:

Food Quality: Multiple guests reported that the food, particularly meat dishes, was of poor quality and not properly prepared. Service: Some guests noted that the service was inconsistent and sometimes lacking. This could be due to staffing shortages or overworked staff. Overall Atmosphere: Guests have reported that the overall atmosphere of the restaurant has declined, with fewer cues and less engagement from the staff.

Comparison to Past Experiences

It's worth noting that the dining experience at Ohana has had a complex history. Before the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, guests consistently praised Ohana for its authentic cultural experience, delicious food, and warm service. The restaurant was known for its unique blend of traditional Hawaiian flavors and a Polynesian theme that transports guests to the islands. However, the onset of the pandemic brought challenges, leading to temporary closures and changes in operations.

Despite these challenges, some aspects of the dining experience, such as the Hawaii Luau, continued to operate for select dining plans. The Luau was a highlight for guests, offering an immersive cultural experience complete with live entertainment, traditional dishes, and tropical drinks. However, recent visits have shown that the quality of both food and ambiance has not matched previous standards.

Conclusion and Tips for Future Diners

If you plan to dine at Ohana, it's essential to keep in mind the potential for variation in experience. While the restaurant still offers an authentic Hawaiian cultural immersion, the inconsistency in food quality and service could affect your overall dining experience.

Reservations: Make sure to book your dining reservation in advance to avoid longer wait times which can affect the dining experience. Dining Plan: Consider whether you have a Diamond, Golden, or Platinum dining plan that includes the Hawaiian Luau. If not, it might be worth purchasing a plan to get the full dining experience. Service: Be aware that the quality of service can vary, so be prepared for a mixed experience in terms of engagement with servers.

Ultimately, Ohana remains a unique dining experience at Walt Disney World's Polynesian Resort, but it's important to consider the recent changes in the quality of food and service when making your plans.

Keywords: Ohana dining experience, Walt Disney World Polynesian Resort, dining cost